2010 Toyota RAV-4 2.2L Diesel · GJ10 KXA

A persistent pattern of rear‑suspension corrosion and wear underpins the MOT history, with the 2023 failure of the nearside front anti‑roll bar linkage dust cover marking the only outright rejection; the most recent test in February 2026 passed but still listed reduced damping and light oil mist from the nearside rear shock absorber, plus nearside front tyre wear close to the legal limit. Earlier years show repeated advisories for corroded rear coil springs, mounting corrosion on both rear suspension sub‑frames, and progressively thinning rear brake pads, indicating that the vehicle’s rear suspension and braking system have been a recurring focus of attention rather than an isolated issue. At 193,209 mi the RAV‑4 averages roughly 12,000 mi per annum over its sixteen‑year life, a mileage level that exceeds typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The MOT record shows annual testing without significant gaps, suggesting the mileage has been accumulated steadily rather than in large, undocumented bursts. Such a high annual run‑rate accelerates wear on consumables – tyres, shock absorbers, brake pads and discs – and places additional stress on suspension bushings and coil springs, especially where corrosion has already been noted. When inspecting the rear suspension, feel for any knocking or excessive bounce when the car is driven over speed bumps; listen for metallic clunking that could indicate deteriorated coil‑spring mounts or failing shock absorbers, particularly on the nearside where reduced damping and oil mist were recorded. Examine the rear tyres for uneven edge wear or cracking, as the nearside rear tyre was previously flagged as slightly damaged; uneven wear may also point to mis‑aligned suspension components or worn anti‑roll bar bushings. The front anti‑roll bar linkage dust cover that failed in 2023 should be checked for dirt ingress and play – a loose ball joint will manifest as a vague steering wobble or a subtle clunk when cornering. Brake performance warrants close scrutiny: the front brake disc was noted as worn (though not excessive) in 2025 and rear pads were reported thin in 2024, so test for pedal feel, any judder under hard braking, and listen for squealing that could betray pad wear. The nearside rear inner CV boot was recorded as severely deteriorated in 2022; a visual inspection for grease leakage around the joint and a test‑drive for clicking noises on acceleration or deceleration will reveal whether the joint is still functional. Finally, verify the condition of the headlamp lenses, which have been flagged as slightly defective, and confirm that the anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint shows no play, as lingering play can cause steering pull. Replacing the rear shocks, addressing the corroded coil‑spring mounts and anti‑roll bar dust cover, and fitting a fresh set of tyres and brake pads would bring the most critical wear items back within safe operating limits before committing to purchase.